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The Forbidden Duke

(The Untouchables #1)

Darcy Burke (Goodreads Author)

3.87 · Rating details · 2,104 ratings · 299 reviews

Spinster Miss Eleanor Lockhart is suddenly homeless and employment is her only option. Ruined after succumbing to a scoundrel’s excessive charm nearly a decade ago, she’s lucky to obtain a position as a paid companion and committed to behaving with the utmost propriety. She definitely shouldn’t be in the arms of a man capable of utterly destroying what little remains of he ...more

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Kindle Edition, 246 pages

Published March 15th 2016 by Darcy Burke

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· 2,104 ratings · 299 reviews

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Mar 11, 2017 WhiskeyintheJar rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, regency, series

He kept his back to her. "I would imagine so after being in London. Young women such as yourself are scrutinized in a horrid fashion."
She joined him at the bookshelf. "So are forbidden dukes. It makes one conclude that London, or rather Society, is the problem."

This was a little shorter (150ish pgs) than the average romance book length and the hero's character suffered a bit because of it. His almost completely removing himself from society seemed more sad and odd than understandable. The r ...more

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Mar 24, 2016 Becca rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: on-my-shelf, arc-complimentary-copy

This was the first time I've tried Darcy Burke and it certainly won't be the last! The Forbidden Duke is a story about two people who made youthful mistakes and have reshaped their adult lives as a result.

Nora has been living in the country for the past nine years because in her first season she was caught kissing a notorious rake who then didn't offer to marry her. She has been forced to return to society as a lady's companion because her father no longer has funds or space to care for her. The This was the first time I've tried Darcy Burke and it certainly won't be the last! The Forbidden Duke is a story about two people who made youthful mistakes and have reshaped their adult lives as a result.

Nora has been living in the country for the past nine years because in her first season she was caught kissing a notorious rake who then didn't offer to marry her. She has been forced to return to society as a lady's companion because her father no longer has funds or space to care for her. Therefore, Nora accepts a position as Lady Satterfield's companion. Lady Satterfield is an all around delightful person. She only had a daughter of her own who died when she was young. Recognizing the injustice that Nora endured, Lady Satterfield becomes a fairy godmother of sorts and offers to sponsor Nora for a season to give her a second chance.

The Duke of Kendal used to be a rake and ran with a wild crowd, not caring about the damage that his carelessness caused others. However, upon learning that he was a key instigator in Nora's ruin, he withdraws from society and only attends events held by his stepmother, Lady Satterfield, for the next nine years.

What I liked about this story was how the characters had tempered feelings about love, desire, and marriage. They were both disgusted with the hypocrisy of the ton and were wary of others as they navigated society. Nora is grateful for a second chance of finding a husband and having a family of her own and approaches society with pragmatism, poise, and just a tiny bit of nervousness. Kendal finds himself fascinated with his stepmother's ward and ends up attending additional events to be around her more. Most interestingly is The way Burke develops Kendal's character. Many times, we have aloof dukes because they are socially awkward or supremely arrogant rakes. Not here. Kendal remains aloof not because he is arrogant or awkward, but simply because he is an introverted man who prefers solitary living to meaningless shallow relationships. I don't see this characterization often and I liked how Burke fleshed out Kendal's character without falling into the awkward or arrogant Duke theme.

I thought the development of Kendal and Nora's relationship was nicely done and reflected their regrets of the past, their desires to not make the same mistakes, and their growth into more mature adults. With that said, there still were a few weak points that kept this from being five stars. I'm being deliberately vague in these descriptions to avoid spoilers.First, there is a secondary character who seemed charming and then did something wildly out of character in order to propel the plot to a hasty conclusion. I didn't think it needed to be done and would've preferred the story without the drama. Second, I thought Nora and Kendal's physical relationship went too far early on based on what the two endured and feared. I don't think Kendal would've taken things as far as he did based on his mistakes of the past. This scene could've been intimate without going as far as it did. Finally, the epilogue is used to set up the next books in the series and doesn't focus as strongly on the central characters. This didn't bother me as much since I felt the story of Nora and Kendal was complete, but this may bother many other readers.

Overall, this was a nice, short read with refreshing characters, a wonderful stepmother, and a nice story of second chances. I'd recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy to read and review. ...more

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Apr 18, 2017 Caz rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 3-and-a-half-stars, romance-1800-1850, audiogals, audiobook

I've given this a B+ for narration and a C+ for content at AudioGals, so I'll leave it at 4 stars.

The Forbidden Duke is the first book in Darcy Burke’s The Untouchables series, so named because the heroes are all men whose highly elevated positions in society make them unattainable by any but ladies of the highest station and put them most definitely beyond the reach of the heroines... supposedly.

I’ve read and enjoyed a couple of the later books in the series, so when this one popped up at ...more

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Nov 17, 2017 Mei rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical

This one was was not bad, but not as good as the two HR I've just read!

The story is rather overused: poor destitute, riuned heroine and a stern, conquest a devastatingly handsome Duke!

It's not bad, but I found it rather tepid... Sorry... ...more

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Dec 04, 2019 Antonella rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: rare-author-june2019-to-june-2021, historical, audiobook

I enjoyed this one.
As this is my first read by this author I see myself reading more by her.
Solid historical novel!!

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Aug 22, 2018 Shannon rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, audio-books, indie

3.5 stars
I'm really torn about this book. On one hand it was a nice story and the writing was good. On the other I'm not sure how much I liked it. I never had that fall in love feeling. The characters were likable, but they were missing something visceral in their reactions.

I was left wondering whether this was supposed to be a novella that was too long or a novel that ran short.

I do think the story had great potential and so did the characters. I'm glad I read it. It was a 3.5 star read for me, ...more

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Apr 20, 2017 Trish R. rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Loved it..

The only book Darcy Burke has on Audible and I certainly hope it’s not the last. This was such a good book. It’s about Nora, who was “ruined” nine years ago when she was caught in the embrace of Lord Haywood, and Lord Haywood was encouraged by Lord Titus St John, who became the Duke of Kendal, to act that rakishly. Titus gave up his rakish ways when his father died but never really got over the guilt he felt over Nora’s ruination. Nora became Titus’s stepmother’s companion, and that’s ...more

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Jan 11, 2017 ᴥ Irena ᴥ rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance

The Forbidden Duke is a regency fairytale, only without magic. After nine years 'in exile', Nora is forced to come back to London as a companion. She is very lucky because her employer has decided she should have a second chance. Lady Satterfield is a wonderful character. Fairy godmother role suits her well. And she has a stepson. A duke. Enough said.
The blurb implies that the duke was the reason Nora was ruined. It is true but not the way you'd expect.
The story is short and fun. An okay way t ...more

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Mar 01, 2020 Sarah rated it really liked it · review of another edition

'Spinster Miss Eleanor Lockhart is suddenly homeless and employment is her only option. Ruined after succumbing to a scoundrel’s excessive charm nearly a decade ago, she’s lucky to obtain a position as a paid companion and committed to behaving with the utmost propriety. She definitely shouldn’t be in the arms of a man capable of utterly destroying what little remains of her reputation...

Titus St. John, Duke of Kendal, is known as the Forbidden Duke, a mysterious, intimidating figure who enters 'Spinster Miss Eleanor Lockhart is suddenly homeless and employment is her only option. Ruined after succumbing to a scoundrel’s excessive charm nearly a decade ago, she’s lucky to obtain a position as a paid companion and committed to behaving with the utmost propriety. She definitely shouldn’t be in the arms of a man capable of utterly destroying what little remains of her reputation...

Titus St. John, Duke of Kendal, is known as the Forbidden Duke, a mysterious, intimidating figure who enters Society just once each year at his stepmother’s ball. A decade ago, he was a devil-may-care rake until his idle roguery brought about the ruin of Eleanor Lockhart—and his resulting self-imposed isolation. Now she’s back, and she needs his help. But by “saving” her, he may just ruin her life all over again.'
______________________________

3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.

The Forbidden Duke is the first book in Darcy Burke's The Untouchables series.

I felt affronted on Nora's behalf for the way she was cast out by society, forced to rely on an unreliable and selfish father, made to feel forever guilty for ruining her own and younger sister's prospects for great matches, living a lonely and secluded life. All due to an unwise moment alone with a selfish young man who ruined her as a debutante and the ran instead of offering for her.

Titus had made himself into quite the matyr over the intervening years. Which yes, he was in some way connected to her downfall, but he also cannot take responsibilty for someone else's actions The level to which he had been punishing himself as a result of another acting like an ass was a bit unreasonable. His somewhat distant connection to her downfall was a source of conflict for him the entire book. Even though I still think he was putting too much stock in that connection, I was a bit disappointed that when it was revealed to Nora it was so quickly and effortlessly forgiven. I was glad on the one hand because he rightfully should not have to take any blame for another man's actions. But on the other hand, the entire book we read about how he had changed his entire life due to that situation and he couldn't be with her because of it, so it then felt a bit anti-climatic when it was revealed in a dramatic way and then instantly dropped.

The Countess of Satterfield was such a sweet woman, I think she may have been my favorite character here. A bit if a schemer, but only for the benefit of those she cares about. Instead of unduly judging Nora based on years-old gossip, she takes her under her wing and treats her based on the merit of ger character rather than the rumor

I enjoyed and recommend The Forbidden Duke. It's a very short book, more of a novella length and perfect if you're looking for a quick read and a new series to start. I will be continuing on with The Untouchables series and a hope to see glimpses of Nora and Titus along the way.
_____

I would like to thank Darcy Burke for sharing a copy of The Forbidden Duke with me, this is my honest and unbiased review. ...more

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Feb 25, 2020 Preeti ♥︎ Her Bookshelves rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: h-haunted-by-past, h-with-spine-n-spirit, h-poor-broke-or-destitute, sexy-grumps, g-regency-era, series-sequel, g-hx-rom, h-older-virgin_spinster, 2-plus-stars, hero-alpha-hot

Eminently forgettable! 2.75*
Sad as both the mcs are likable. But the story lets them down.
So, the h was ruined (by a kiss) 9-10 years ago and is now companion to his beloved stepmother. I like that she's not a retiring miss but throws 'bold' 'inquiring' and 'assessing' looks at the cold, grumpy duke. The om who 'ruined' her is back along with few catty types from all those years ago but not much drama happens.
Lots of anachronistic behavior (view spoiler) ...more

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Feb 07, 2020 Mahima rated it really liked it · review of another edition

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The book is truly amazing as it made me fall in love with the idea of forgiving at once 💞

I loved the idea of getting married at 28 when at 16th century 21 was considered 'old'. Both the protagonists are amazing in their own ways.

Darcy Burke is superb ❤️ ...more

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Mar 05, 2016 Tracy Emro rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review, netgalley-reviews

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. **I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

Loved this book! It was a perfect intro to the new Untouchables series.

Titus, The Duke of Kendal has been pretty much a recluse since a series of events in his youth caused him to reevaluate his life. He spent most of his youth as a reckless rake and hurt many people. He uses his self imposed exile to atone for the sins of his past. One of those sins is the part he played in the ruin of a young wo **I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

Loved this book! It was a perfect intro to the new Untouchables series.

Titus, The Duke of Kendal has been pretty much a recluse since a series of events in his youth caused him to reevaluate his life. He spent most of his youth as a reckless rake and hurt many people. He uses his self imposed exile to atone for the sins of his past. One of those sins is the part he played in the ruin of a young woman - who has been out of society for the past nine years. This young woman reenters his life by chance - as a companion to his step-mother.

Nora was ruined years ago when a rake compromised her and then refused to offer for her. She was sent home in shame and had lived quietly with her father. Her life is turned upside down by the announcement that her father has lost all his money and can no longer support her. He suggests she take a job as a governess or companion.

Nora takes a job as a companion to the Countess of Satterfield, who happens to be Titus's step-mother - she has remarried, but remains close to Titus. The countess is a very kind, generous woman who immediately takes Nora under her wing. She decides that Nora deserves a second chance at life and insists on sponsoring her for the season. She enlists Titus to help her - she asks him to dance the first dance (the only event of the season he ever attends is her ball and he only dances once and then leaves) at her ball with Nora.

Titus and Nora meet for the first time at a tea held by his step-mother. He immediately recognizes her as the girl that was ruined due to his encouragement of one of the young men in his youthful set. Nora doesn't know that Titus encouraged the man that ruined her to take liberties with her, she is enamored by the "Forbidden Duke".

Titus tries to help Nora have a successful season - he really likes her and wants to atone for the past, that is the only reason he has attended events besides his stepmothers ball - at least that's what he tells himself :)

The more time these two spend together - the harder it becomes for either one of them to accept that Nora will marry someone else. Their simmering passion finally comes to head and they give into their desires. Titus leaves and wonders how he can keep her in his life once she knows the whole truth. Nora admits that she is in love with Titus and can't imagine life with any other man. She has enjoyed her season and has two very serious suitors - when one of them prematurely announces that they are betrothed and a stunned Nora doesn't know what to do. Titus has also heard the rumors and rushes to his stepmother's house to find out if this is what Nora wants.

Once there, he asks Nora to marry him, just as she is accepting, the bumbling suitor intrudes and tells her that Titus was party to her ruin and how could she pick him. Nora is shocked, but lets Titus explain and accepts that he is not the same man he was nine years ago. When he declares his love for her, she knows that the past is over and this man is her future.

There is a very sweet epilogue, which gives the reader a glimpse into the future and sets up the new series perfectly. I am really looking forward to this new series and hope to see more of Nora and Titus.

I would highly recommend this book, it is longer than the average novella, but short enough to finish in a few hours. It is well written, perfectly paced, has some steamy love scenes and an epilogue - what more could you want? ...more

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Aug 21, 2017 Inn Auni rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, short-story-or-novella

Nora was plunged into a scandal in her second season. And because of that, she moved to the countryside. After nine years, she was forced to look for another home as her father went bankrupt. She was hired a companion to a Lady and there was where she met Titus, the Forbidden Duke.

So, Nora had accepted a solitude life and all she wanted was to live in a small cottage with some money to support herself. Of course being a companion was nice as she had roof over her head and food in her belly.

What ...more

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Mar 17, 2016 Sissy's Romance Book Review rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: amazon-free, trt, arc-netgalley

I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really good story that is hard to put down.
Eleanor Lockhart had a encounter with a Rouge about 10 years ago where they were caught kissing. Nora had to leave town but now in the present day she finds that her father has lost all the money and she is pretty much homeless. Nora goes forth to find a job as a companion. Lady Satterfield hires Nora to be her companion but later Lady Satterfield likes he ...more

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Apr 22, 2018 Susan rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sweet read, with wonderful characters and great storyline. Couldn’t put it down.

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May 16, 2018 Estephany Rojas rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Perhaps I would've enjoyed this five years ago when I used to read everything I could put my hands on.

This book is extremely cheesy/cliché. I liked the last 10 pages. ...more

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Mar 17, 2016 Sultry Steamy Reading rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, five-and-four, historical-romance

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

You know, I have to admit that I wasn't expecting to like the book this much. I've read books from this author before, and I usually like and enjoy them. However, I think I like this book the most out of her other works. I think one of the reasons why this book stands out for me is the fact that I love the main characters. The hero used to be a reckless young man who thought of no one but himself and what he wants ...more

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Mar 15, 2016 Diane Peterson rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobooks, kindle-doc, historical-romance

A nice book. I enjoyed it. The writing was not particularly inspired, the story was not unusual, There wasn't a high degree of conflict, and the characters were pleasant but not exceptional. It was, however, a cohesive story that kept my attention.

This is an honest review provided in exchange for the privilege of reading an ARC of the book. ...more

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Mar 07, 2020 Mephala rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, regency-era, 19th-century

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I’m going to be upfront, I was convinced this is erotica. I don’t know why, maybe it was the gorgeous (sexy) cover, or maybe I confused it with another book by a different author. Nonetheless, while being slightly confused by the heat level, I soldiered on and finished it.

Well, it wasn’t the most thrilling of reads and there is a certain awkwardness to the prose, but in general it’s pretty decent regency historical romance.

I liked the premise: Eleanor, a suddenly impoverish spinster needs to st ...more

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Jan 25, 2018 Lorka rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Yeah! I actually finished a whole book! That's a good sign :) The story was actually shorter than I am used to, at 229 pages. I loved the characters, especially the lady that the heroine goes to be a companion for, and another of the older ladies, Mrs. Dunn. The love story was cute and fun to watch... I think there was enough mention though on why the duke was "the Forbidden Duke". That gets referred to, a lot. I was surprised at the heroines boldness with the hero when they first go at it... I ...more

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Aug 20, 2020 Rainelle rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

The Forbidden Duke, by Darcy Burke, I found to be a lovely sweet romantic love story set during the London seasonal time. Darcy takes her readers on a romantic journey with Eleanor and Titus. Darcy focused so much of the book on these two as they come to terms with what they needed in their life and to heck with other people thought. I enjoy the simplicity of Darcy’s writing. She gives a story that’s not filled with theatrics or grandstanding.
After all this is a love story. For me as a reader I ...more

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Mar 01, 2019 Jess (ireadergosum) Reviews rated it really liked it

4.5 Stars! I loved the characters in this book so much. I enjoyed knowing Nora’s thoughts, even when she couldn’t voice them in “proper” company. She showed strength and really tried to stay true to herself. Titus is a hot mess, but such a softie when it comes to Nora. The whole forbidden duke thing is actually quite fun. And let’s not forget the Satterfield’s! Lady Satterfield is just so caring and compassionate. Her and Titus’ relationship is really sweet. And her new husband, comes off as rea ...more

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Nov 29, 2018 Loriidae rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2018-novella

Sweet but short with characters a little underdeveloped as a result.

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May 15, 2020 Nadia rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: awesome-side-characters, heroine-is-my-idol, sad-it-s-over, girl-power, melts-your-heart, this-is-gooood

The low rating baffles me a little, as I found the book to be very enjoyable. No unnecessary drama and it's easy to read (if a bit unbelievable, especially considering the heroine's self-destructive behavior). ...more

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Oct 03, 2020 Darbella rated it liked it

Shelves: boxed-set

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Aug 23, 2020 Merb rated it liked it

Shelves: read-books-only, audio-books, read-in-2020, historical-romance

After having her reputation ruined by a naive and selfish young man, Eleanor Lockhart has spent the last several years living isolated with her father. When she is left with no choice but to seek employment, she snags a job as a companion. But when she meets the son of her employer, the recluse and ‘forbidden’ Kendal, their instant attraction makes things a little difficult for the both of them.

This story had a lot of potential, but unfortunately it was rushed and left me feeling underwhelmed. B ...more

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Nov 18, 2020 Dana aka ♥Belladonna♥ rated it really liked it

Shelves: content-mf, genre-historical, a-series, character-virgin, own-on-kindle, genre-romance, character-royal-aristocrat

3.75 Stars

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Mar 23, 2016 Lindsay rated it liked it

Shelves: netgalley

I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

2.5 stars. This one just didn't work for me, primarily due to issues with the story itself. The entire plot revolves around the fact that the h, Nora, was ruined 9 years prior when she was in London for the season by being caught in a "suggestive" situation with a man who didn't then marry her. The details of that night aren't ever really delved into, so I was left to assume that they were just kissing (or it sai I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

2.5 stars. This one just didn't work for me, primarily due to issues with the story itself. The entire plot revolves around the fact that the h, Nora, was ruined 9 years prior when she was in London for the season by being caught in a "suggestive" situation with a man who didn't then marry her. The details of that night aren't ever really delved into, so I was left to assume that they were just kissing (or it said kissing- it was not written to make you think more than that). For the time period, that is totally plausible and would probably ruin a girl with no wealth and few connections from finding a husband in London or perhaps anywhere else. What I don't understand is how this same girl, now older and supposedly wiser, actually (view spoiler) As much as kissing screwed her over 9 years ago, it didn't follow to me that she'd be so reckless again. She also has a knack for saying pretty blunt things and just saying, "Oops! Shouldn't have said that." She did that about a half dozen times, which I found a bit silly.

Another issue I have with the plot is that we are told repeatedly that Kendal had a hand in Nora's being ruined by egging on that guy that did it. But...really? I mean, it was douchey of him to tell his friend to act like that, but he himself didn't do anything to her. Also, it was built up that that secret would be a big issue between Nora and Kendal, but when it came down to it(view spoiler)

I also found it hard to swallow that a random wealthy, titled lady would offer to take in and then sponsor a formally ruined girl who she has no prior connection with. The likelihood of that happening in real life was probably near zero. It was nice, but not realistic.

And ah, the insta-love. Insta-lust is one thing, but (view spoiler)

So...the plot needed some work. Everything was just too easy and not very realistic. That said, this was not an unpleasant read. The writing itself was really not bad at all. The love scene was pretty darn well written. I didn't dislike any of the main characters- they were likeable and relatable. I feel like with some more work (and maybe some more pages, because this was really short), this could have been pretty good.

*One last thing- I didn't like how the epilogue was one of the longest chapters of the book, mainly to set up sequels. New characters were introduced that I just didn't care about. It was forced, and I would have preferred to just see this story wrapped up before teasing a new one. ...more

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Mar 25, 2016 Gaele rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: historic, reviewed, independent-review, 2016-challenges, hrrc

The first I’ve read of Darcy Burke’s historical romances, I found that my anticipation was met and exceeded on my enjoyment scale. I adored the characters of Eleanor and Titus, and Lady Satterfield was an utter gem, perfectly suited to the title of fairy godmother.

See, years ago Eleanor was a young innocent: starry eyed and full of romantic ideals and believing that everything told her was the truth. Unfortunately she was surrounded by society and their harsh judgments, and the notorious rake t The first I’ve read of Darcy Burke’s historical romances, I found that my anticipation was met and exceeded on my enjoyment scale. I adored the characters of Eleanor and Titus, and Lady Satterfield was an utter gem, perfectly suited to the title of fairy godmother.

See, years ago Eleanor was a young innocent: starry eyed and full of romantic ideals and believing that everything told her was the truth. Unfortunately she was surrounded by society and their harsh judgments, and the notorious rake that had settled his eyes on her spoke all the words the young girl could want to hear. More unfortunate still, this man was after little more than yet another notch, and left her ruined and shamed, to flee from London with hopes of marriage and a good match thrown to the wind.

Titus St. John, Duke of Kendal has been floundering for the past few years, searching for something. More recently, the emptiness of his life and being ‘the rake’s rake’ among his group of peers had worn thin. Without a clue how to proceed, he’s retreated from all social engagements spare one, his stepmother’s ball, but that is where his nod to convention ends.

With the death of Eleanor’s father and the new awareness of just how impoverished she is, Eleanor must find shelter: her sister and her husband the vicar are not an option because of her scandalous past. Biting the bullet, she decides a position as companion would be suitable, if she finds the right dowager who can overlook the noise.

Enter Lady Satterfield, Titus’ stepmother and fairy godmother extraordinaire. Not unaware of the harsh double standards in judgments passed by the ton on everyone, she also is convinced that Eleanor’s misstep of years ago was due to her innocence and naiveté, and not a character flaw. So, she has decided to hire Eleanor, and provide her with a second chance… because it will give her stepson what he needs.

Approachable and convincing, the characters fairly breathe in the corners as you get to know them, feeling the weight of Eleanor’s shame at the scandal, Titus’ restraint and later guilt at knowing he ruined this young woman, not directly but by encouraging others for sport. Above all, the glue is Lady Satterfield: kind and generous, old enough to see the truth around her and the arrogance with which the ton passes proclamations, yet sensitive enough to see the true intentions and hearts of those she cares for. A wonderful introduction to the series.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the author via tour organizer for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed ...more

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Jun 29, 2016 Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I loved reading the Forbidden Duke!! from Darcy Burke's new series the Untouchable. The Untouchables are the Hierarchy of the Ton those whose titles make them above the rest of the Ton. They are the Dukes, Marquis and Earls!! I love anything about a Duke if it is reasonably possible and The Forbidden Duke was believable.

Ten years ago Miss Eleanor Lockhart was ruined by one kiss in a garden. The Untouchable rake Lord Haywood refuse to marry her. As she was not in the hierarchy of which he seek no I loved reading the Forbidden Duke!! from Darcy Burke's new series the Untouchable. The Untouchables are the Hierarchy of the Ton those whose titles make them above the rest of the Ton. They are the Dukes, Marquis and Earls!! I love anything about a Duke if it is reasonably possible and The Forbidden Duke was believable.

Ten years ago Miss Eleanor Lockhart was ruined by one kiss in a garden. The Untouchable rake Lord Haywood refuse to marry her. As she was not in the hierarchy of which he seek nor did she have a diary. Lord Haywood ran in a circle of young rakes who thought they could do anything and get away with anything. The Leader of the group was Titus St. John 5th Duke of Kendal.

Kendal learned from his terrible mistakes as a young, after realizing the ruined and hurt he had brought upon Eleanor/Nora. She was banished by the Ton and sent back home to live with her fathe in the country. Now ten years have passed and Nora's father has announced he can no longer keep her. That he has no more money at all. He lost it all in a bad investment. Nora must fiend for herself.

After being employed by Lady Satterfield as a Lady's Companion Nora meets The Duke of Kendal. He is Lady Satterfield loving step son. At the time of her ruined he was the Marquis of Ravenglass so she doesn't recognize that he played a part of her downfall.

Titus know immediately who Nora is and what part he played in her downfall. Titus is so sorry and does all he can to put Nora's life to rights. Titus has removed himself from his friends and the Ton only attending his duties in the House of Lords and his Beloved Step Mothers annual Opening of the Season Ball.

Ash Titus and Nora begin to build a relationship. Titus's heart begins to thaw he also beings to fall in love with Nora and Nora with him.

I loved both Titus and Nora they are well written loveable characters. The story is believable for the era. I enjoyed all the Characters Lady Satterfield and Lady Dunn. This is a well developed storyline with just enough back story to give it credence. The building romance between Titus and Nora was so romantic and lovely. I kept routing for them to get together. There is only one sex scene and it was written tastefully. I do like a bit more sexual heat to my stories. But I didn't miss it the story was just that good. I am off to read bk2 in the Untouchable series Duke of Daring!! I hope it is as good.
I Highly Recommend The Forbidden Duke!! ...more

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About Darcy Burke

Darcy Burke

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Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.

A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guit ...more